And the defender now joins in time to meet his new team mates for the start of pre-season on June 26.

Meredith told the club’s official website: "I'm pleased to join. I'm excited to get going here. I'm keeping myself fit over the summer break and I'm looking forward to getting started in The Championship."

The defender also explained the reason why he decided to join the Lions over a reunion with former boss Phil Parkinson at Bolton: "The gaffer persuaded me, really," he said.

"We sat down after the play-off Final and talked over a few things, including his plans for next season. He showed me the players that are currently at the club and showed me some clips of the style of play and how I could fit into that."

Harris commented on Meredith's arrival by telling the club's official website: "It's a brilliant one. It's been well publicised that James was coming to us, but it's great to get it over the line. The medical has been completed and the paperwork has been signed. We're really pleased to welcome him aboard.

"He's been a consistent performer in League One over the last couple of years. Our fans would've seen an outstanding display from him in the Play-Off Final at Wembley a couple of weeks ago.

"He's going to add real competition to the squad. Tony (Craig) has been fantastic, Joe (Martin) was fantastic, but with the latter leaving, we need new competition in the left-back slot. James brings that. He carries the ball well up the park and gives us a different dimension."